From African markets to poolside vows, Natasha and Aadil’s Zanzibar wedding is what dreams are made of

If there was ever a wedding that perfectly captured the spirit of wanderlust, it was that of Natasha Jamal and Aadil Nanji. Their love story, spanning countries and continents, finally came full circle on the dreamy island of Zanzibar, where white sands, blue waters, and cool breezes set the scene for a four-day celebration that felt straight out of a film.

Jamal, who hails from Kenya, and Nanji, born and raised in Canada, first crossed paths in New York City. It wasn’t a fleeting encounter. Their connection deepened over shared adventures, long-distance conversations, and the kind of chemistry that defies geography. When the world came to a standstill during the pandemic, they found themselves navigating the challenges of being apart, proving that their bond was built to last.

Their love story, fittingly, was one of travel and serendipity. They reconnected in Turkey, where sparks flew once again, and soon after, Nanji proposed in the picturesque setting of Santorini, Greece, surrounded by the sunset and the sea. So when it came to choosing a wedding destination, it was only natural that they picked another spot close to the ocean—one that would celebrate not just their union, but also their journey.

The Zanzibar dream

Their wedding unfolded across a luxurious family-owned property in Zanzibar—an intimate, private setting that still carried a sense of grandeur. Over four unforgettable days, friends and family gathered from across the world to celebrate the couple’s love story in a setting that was both deeply personal and universally stunning.

The celebrations began on September 4 with a vibrant welcome party, designed to immerse guests in the local spirit. The evening came alive with the sights and sounds of an African market, complete with colourful stalls, Zanzibari souvenirs, and lively Maasai dancers. Guests wandered through the set-up with specially designed “branded money” to shop for keepsakes—a fun, interactive way to kick off the festivities. Fire performers from Turkey and a magician added a dose of wonder, setting the tone for the days to come.

Sacred vows and joyful beats

The next morning brought a beautiful change of pace. On September 5, Jamal and Nanji tied the knot in an intimate Ismaili wedding ceremony, surrounded by their closest family and friends. The soft morning light, traditional rituals, and heartfelt Nikkah vows created a deeply emotional atmosphere, one that grounded the celebration in love and faith.

That evening, the mood shifted as the couple hosted a spectacular sangeet night, themed as a high-energy night of performances and surprises. A ball illusionist from Manchester, skaters from Paris, and a bold electric fan installation with their names turned the event into a fusion of international talent and local zest. Jamal dazzled in a custom Kresha Bajaj ensemble, while Nanji matched her energy as the dance floor came alive under twinkling lights.

Love in the middle of the ocean

The most visually stunning moment of the wedding came on September 6, with the Christian wedding ceremony. Set quite literally in the middle of a pool overlooking the ocean, it was a scene that felt cinematic—bubbles drifting through the air, bursts of coloured powder reflecting the sea, and the couple framed by endless blue horizons. The ceremony’s vibe was elevated by delicate details like African fans gifted to guests, a nod to the local setting and warm hospitality.

Jamal’s white gown flowed effortlessly against the tropical backdrop, while Nanji stood beside her, looking every bit the dapper groom. Their vows, exchanged with laughter and tears, echoed softly over the water—a symbol of two worlds coming together in harmony.

A magical finale

The celebrations concluded that night with a beachside reception, where fairy lights glowed under the stars and the sound of waves set the rhythm for the evening. The couple made a sparkling entrance with glow sticks and fireworks, before sharing their first dance as husband and wife. Jamal shone in a Tarun Tahiliani creation, while Nanji impressed in Dior.

As friends and family cheered, and the ocean breeze carried laughter across the beach, it was clear that this was more than just a wedding; it was a celebration of two people who had found love across continents, cultures, and time zones.

From the lively African market to the serene poolside vows, every moment of Jamal and Nanji’s wedding reflected who they were—adventurous, global, and deeply in love. 

All images: WeddingNama

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